Teacher booked for alleged sexual misconduct involving minor students in J-K's Kupwara

Kupwara, Oct 25: Police have registered a case against a school teacher for allegedly involving in sexual misconduct with minor students in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, a police official said on Friday late evening.

The case was registered after two residents from Dardpora Kupwara filed a written complaint against Showkat Ahmad Bhat, a teacher (school name withheld) alleging that the said school teacher has engaged in sexual misconduct with minor female students over recent days.

He said that at least seven students have reported to their parents of sexual misconduct by the accused. "Another individual identified as Sajad Ahmad Mir has also been detained as an alleged accomplice in the matter," he added.

In a statement, a police spokesman said they have registered a Case FIR No. 96/2024 U/S 75 Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act and Sections 9, 10, and 17 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

"As per the complaint, the accused teacher allegedly used opportunities within the school premises to commit acts of sexual molestation by taking the minor girls to a separate room. Approximately seven students are reported to have disclosed these incidents to their parents, which prompted the filing of the formal complaint at Police Station Kralpora," said the spokesman.

"In accordance with established procedures, an investigation was immediately initiated. Preliminary findings indicate that Showkat Ahmad Bhat may have committed aggravated sexual assault, as alleged, and further reveal the involvement of another individual, Sajad Ahmad Mir, who has also been detained as an alleged accomplice in the matter".